Rep. Hoyle blasted for calling ICE agent a murderer

DeSpain Calls Out Unhinged, Politicized Reactions to Portland, Minneapolis Shootings by Rep. Hoyle, Others for Promoting Anarchy, Interference with Federal Officers
By Monique DeSpain campaign

Stands With Law Enforcement, Urges Making Communities Safe and Livable Top Priority

Eugene, OR — This weekend, Oregon’s 4th Congressional District candidate, retired Air Force Colonel Monique DeSpain, responded to the reactions issued by Congresswoman Val Hoyle and other Oregon politicians to the recent shootings for being reckless and promoting anarchy and interference with federal officers.

“Recent statements from Congresswoman Val Hoyle, Governor Tina Kotek, and Oregon’s U.S. Senators reflect a disturbing lack of responsibility at a moment when Oregonians are demanding safety, accountability, and honesty from their leaders,” said Monique DeSpain. “Instead of waiting for the facts, they rushed to the cameras with unhinged, politicized rhetoric that spread misinformation about events in Minneapolis and Portland, undermined the rule of law, and attacked federal law enforcement for carrying out their sworn duties to protect us.”

Congresswoman Val Hoyle posted a video statement on Wednesday, accusing law enforcement of “murder” and lying about it after a protester was shot in Minneapolis during an incident in which the protester allegedly tried to ram an ICE officer with an SUV. Hoyle posted again on Thursday, after ICE officers in Portland shot and wounded two illegal immigrants reportedly linked to the Tren de Aragua gang who allegedly attempted to ram officers while being apprehended. Several other Oregon officials made similar statements, including calls for ICE to cease arresting dangerous illegal aliens in Portland. DeSpain cited Hoyle’s past comments as part of a pattern of undermining law enforcement and public safety in Eugene in her guest column published recently in Lookout Eugene-Springfield.

“Federal officers have a sworn duty to protect our communities. When they face lethal, intentional vehicle attacks and take known dangerous actors into custody, they should not be condemned for defending themselves and enforcing the law. The reckless statements we’ve seen from Oregon’s top officials have done real damage—fueling mistrust, promoting anarchy, and inciting unlawful interference that puts officers and the public at greater risk,” added DeSpain.

“Leadership should bring people together around facts, solutions, and the rule of law—not inflame division or legitimize obstruction. The threats facing Oregon are not abstract or political talking points. Gang violence, drug and human trafficking, weapons trafficking, organized theft, burglary, and repeat offenders are real problems harming families across Oregon and throughout the Fourth District. Oregonians have had enough.”

“Real leadership tells the truth, prioritizes lasting solutions that keep communities safe and livable, and supports law enforcement with both words and action. I stand firmly with local, state, and federal law enforcement. And I am proud to step forward as a clear, consistent voice for law-abiding Oregonians,” stated DeSpain. “While others refuse to lead, I am willing to stand up, speak plainly, and act with courage. Oregonians deserve leadership that protects its citizens—including our men and women in uniform—and I will not back down from that responsibility.”